Oh, let me tell you about my favorite Christmas quiche! This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the holidays wrapped in a flaky pie crust. I love preparing this quiche for festive gatherings because it’s so versatile—whether it’s Christmas morning brunch or a cozy family dinner, it always brings smiles around the table. The creamy filling, combined with savory ham and hearty spinach, creates a perfect harmony that’s both comforting and festive. Trust me, the aromas wafting through your kitchen will instantly put you in the holiday spirit! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover veggies from your holiday feast. If you’re looking to impress your guests this season, this Christmas quiche is definitely the way to go!
Ingredients for Christmas Quiche
- 1 pie crust – You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 6 large eggs – Fresh eggs work best for that rich flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This adds a luscious creaminess; you can also substitute with half-and-half if you want a lighter version.
- 1 cup shredded cheese – I love using a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for that perfect melty texture.
- 1 cup cooked spinach – Make sure to squeeze out any excess water so your quiche doesn’t get soggy!
- 1/2 cup diced ham – Feel free to swap this out for cooked bacon or a vegetarian option if you prefer.
- 1/4 cup chopped onions – Onions add a lovely sweetness; you can use yellow or shallots for a milder flavor.
- Salt to taste – A little goes a long way, so start small and adjust as needed.
- Pepper to taste – Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of kick!
How to Prepare Christmas Quiche
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures our quiche bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!
Prepare the Pie Crust
Now, grab your pie crust and gently place it in a pie dish. If you’re using a store-bought crust, just unroll it and fit it snugly into the dish. Don’t forget to prick the bottom with a fork a few times! This little step helps prevent any bubbling while it bakes, keeping your crust nice and flat.
Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together those six large eggs and one cup of heavy cream until it’s well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and a little frothy; this is where the magic happens! It’s the base for that rich, creamy filling we all love.
Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Gently fold in one cup of shredded cheese, one cup of cooked spinach (make sure you’ve squeezed out any excess water!), half a cup of diced ham, and a quarter cup of chopped onions. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste, and give it a good stir until everything is evenly coated in that delicious egg mixture.
Pour and Bake
Carefully pour your egg and filling mixture into the prepared pie crust. Don’t worry if it looks a bit full; it will settle down while baking! Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is beautifully golden. You’ll know it’s done when you can gently shake it, and there’s just a slight jiggle in the middle. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and then enjoy every delightful bite!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Quiche
- Festive Flavor: The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with savory ham and vibrant spinach makes every bite feel like a holiday celebration.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this delightful dish ready in no time!
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for Christmas brunch, a cozy family dinner, or even as a side at holiday gatherings—this quiche fits every occasion.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat, making entertaining a breeze.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this quiche!
- Kid-Approved: The cheesy, comforting flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a family favorite!
Tips for Success with Christmas Quiche
Alright, let’s make sure your Christmas quiche turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that will help you achieve quiche glory:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a rubbery texture. Just fold everything together until it’s nicely combined, and you’ll be golden.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and produce make all the difference in flavor. If you can, get local eggs and fresh spinach for that vibrant taste!
- Swap Out Proteins: If you’re not a fan of ham, feel free to use cooked bacon, sausage, or even go completely vegetarian by adding more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms!
- Experiment with Cheese: While I love the classic cheddar and Gruyère combo, try mixing in feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Cheese can really elevate your quiche!
- Chill Before Baking: If you have the time, let your quiche sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your quiche. If the edges are golden brown and the center has a slight jiggle, it’s just about perfect. Remember, it will continue to set as it cools!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a stunning Christmas quiche that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Christmas quiche, and now you’ve got leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store it properly to keep that wonderful flavor and texture intact.
First, let the quiche cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled down, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out in the fridge. You can store your quiche in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—just make sure it’s well covered!
When it’s time to enjoy your leftover quiche, the best way to reheat it is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the quiche on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the edges are crispy again. If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave, but I recommend doing it in short increments (about 30 seconds) to prevent it from getting rubbery. Just be careful; the center will get hot quickly!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your Christmas quiche will remain just as delightful as the day you made it. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a general overview of the nutritional values for a slice of this delightful Christmas quiche. Keep in mind that these are estimates based on the ingredients listed, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 150mg
These values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, especially when it comes to the cheese or any additional fillings. But no matter the numbers, I promise each slice is packed with flavor and festive cheer! Enjoy your delicious, creamy Christmas quiche without a worry—it’s the holidays, after all!
FAQ about Christmas Quiche
Can I make this quiche ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Christmas quiche is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge unbaked. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. If you bake it ahead of time, let it cool completely and store it in the fridge. It reheats beautifully!
What are some great variations for this recipe?
The beauty of this quiche is how adaptable it is! You can easily swap out the ham for bacon, sausage, or even a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses too—feta or goat cheese can add a lovely tang!
Can I use a different type of crust?
Sure! If you’re looking to switch it up, you can use a store-bought puff pastry or a gluten-free crust if needed. Just keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes!
Is this quiche suitable for a breakfast or brunch gathering?
Absolutely! This Christmas quiche is a fantastic choice for brunch. Its festive flavors and beautiful presentation make it a showstopper on any holiday breakfast table. Pair it with some fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal!
Can I freeze leftover quiche?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the quiche tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat as usual. It’s like having a slice of the holidays ready whenever you want!
Christmas Quiche: 7 Festive Flavors for Holiday Joy
- Gesamtzeit: 55 minutes
- Ertrag: 8 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Vegetarisch
Beschreibung
A festive quiche perfect for Christmas gatherings.
Zutaten
- 1 pie crust
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and cream.
- Add cheese, spinach, ham, onions, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the center is set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Can be served warm or cold.
- Great for brunch or as a side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 40 minutes
- Kategorie: Main Dish
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: French
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 slice
- Kalorien: 320
- Zucker: 2g
- Natrium: 450mg
- Fett: 25g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 12g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 20g
- Faser: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterin: 150mg
Keywords: christmas quiche, holiday recipe, festive dish
